Benett Carlyle Brittain

Benett Carlyle Brittain

Benett C. “Benny” Brittain passed away unexpectedly on March 9, 2026. He was born March 7, 1952 in Hildebran, NC, where he spent his childhood and graduated from Hildebran High School in 1970. After considering a career in the furniture industry, in 1974 he took a job at Merchants Distributors, Inc. (MDI), in Hickory, where over the next 45 years he would rise through the ranks to become one of their most respected and capable managers, overseeing many of the warehousing operations across multiple departments.

Benny was a man of many skills, talents and interests, but most especially he had a love for anything automotive. Over the course of nearly 60 years, he bought, sold, traded, restored, and enjoyed dozens of vehicles. His last purchase, just a month before his passing, was a special treat—the first brand new car he had ever bought just for himself.

He truly loved helping people, and after the passing of his beloved wife Patti in 2013, he dedicated himself to many causes in Lenoir and Caldwell County, including long-term board memberships for the Wig Bank, The Robin’s Nest, and his church, First United Methodist.

Benny’s love for his family and friends was deep and heartfelt. He delighted in entertaining and thoroughly enjoyed preparing any number of delicious dishes for parties and gatherings, making sure that all in attendance had a wonderful time.

He is survived by his family, who treasured their time with him; his twin sister Janet Muir (Jim); his four children Eddie Brittain (Denita), Matt Johnson (Annemarie), Meg Whitaker (Brian), John Spencer (April); his grandchildren Lance, Chasity, Robbie, Cory, Jemma, Evan, Saylor, and Emryn; his nephews Kyle and Craig Warlick; sister-in-law Peggy Saylor; and very special friend Carolyn Bryant.

A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at First United Methodist Church in Lenoir, with The Reverend Dr. David Melton officiating. The family will receive visitors in the fellowship hall one hour prior to the service. A private inurnment will follow the service.

For those who wish to do so, donations in memory of Benny can be made to the Wig Bank, The Robin’s Nest, and the Lenoir Service League.

Evans Funeral Service is honored to serve the family Benett Carlyle Brittain.